Advocated for our taxpayers'' District 214 superintendent stands by strategy in property tax dispute with Bears
Northwest Suburban High School District 214 Superintendent Scott Rowe refuted claims of greediness in the ongoing property tax dispute with the Chicago Bears, alongside two other Arlington Heights-area school districts. Despite being on the brink of an agreement regarding property valuation and tax payments for the Arlington Park site, Rowe asserted that the schools cannot concede to the demands of the Bears' tax attorneys due to the long-term ramifications of a short-term deal.
Rowe clarified during a recent school board meeting that the districts are not motivated by greed, as suggested by some. He emphasized that any financial benefits from the project would not materialize for at least 25 to 40 years. The proposed property tax break legislation endorsed by the Bears would freeze the assessment of the team's 326-acre property for up to four decades, shifting the burden to other taxpayers in the community.
The disagreement stems from the discrepancy between the Bears' appraisal valuing the racetrack site at $60 million and the school districts' appraisal suggesting a value of $160 million. Negotiations included the Bears proposing a $5 million annual tax payment, which the districts found inadequate.
Rowe described the meetings with Bears' executives as productive but lamented the inability to reach a settlement that both parties anticipated. As a result, both sides have presented their cases to the Cook County Board of Review, with a decision expected in the coming weeks.
Throughout negotiations, the schools' priority has been to ensure full funding for any new students residing within the Bears' proposed redevelopment area. While there seemed to be agreement on this aspect during talks over a proposed memorandum of understanding, it could not be finalized without resolving the property tax issue.
Despite recent discussions about potential stadium sites in Chicago, Rowe reiterated the desire of the school district officials to have the Bears remain in Arlington Heights. He emphasized their commitment to being cooperative partners with the village while advocating for the interests of their taxpayers.
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